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THE Federal Court has unanimously dismissed Semantan Estate (1952) Sdn Bhd’s final appeals, maintaining government ownership of the 107-hectare prime land in Jalan Duta, known as Duta Enclave
Chief Judge of Malaya Tan Sri Hasnah Mohamed Hashim, who led the three-member bench, said the company’s application failed to meet the legal threshold under Sections 96(a) and 96(b) of the Courts of Judicature Act 1964.
“We are of the view that after examining all arguments in detail and reviewing the law and constitution, the applicant’s request for leave to appeal does not meet the required threshold. Therefore, the application is dismissed with costs,” she said.
The ruling follows the Court of Appeal’s decision on 24 June to reverse a High Court order that had previously compelled the government to transfer ownership of the land to Semantan Estate.
The Federal Court’s decision marks one of the last for both Hasnah and Federal Court judge Datuk Hanipah Farikullah, who are set to retire this month.
The Duta Enclave, which hosts government offices including the Inland Revenue Board Complex, the National Hockey Stadium, Institut Kefahaman Islam Malaysia, and the Federal Territory Mosque, remains in the hands of the government.
Semantan Estate first filed a civil suit in 2003 alleging unlawful acquisition of the land. A 2009 ruling confirmed the company’s beneficial interest in the 263.27-acre (106.5-hectare) parcel, but subsequent appeals by the government have ultimately secured state ownership.
While ownership remains with the government, the courts have ordered compensation for Semantan Estate, to be assessed by the High Court within 90 days with expert assistance. - November 13, 2025